Best Mads Mikkelson Performances

Mads Mikkelsen is regarded as one of Hollywood’s most respected and versatile actors. With the release of ‘Another Round’ this May, where the performer earned an Oscar nomination, it is time to look back at the actor’s filmography and break down his five best performances. So, without further ado, let’s get stuck into it, here are my personal, five favorite performances from Mads Mikkelsen.

Casino Royale (2006) – In 2006, Mikkelsen took on the role of James Bonds's advisory, Le Chiffre and he absolutely nails it. Le Chiffre still remains to be one of my favorite film villains of all time. He is menacing, he is strong-willed, and he is ruthless. Who can forget that torture scene? It is brilliant but in a brutal and cringe-inducing way. Mikkelsen brings a cold and heartless exterior to the character, which makes him as memorable as he is in the film. The character still remains to be my favorite Bond villain of all time.

Buy Casino Royale on DVD Here

Doctor Strange (2016) – Mikkelsen in 2016 joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Kaecilius. Whilst we do not spend a lot of time with this character, Mikkelsen brings a lot to the role, really making the character his own. Again, playing the villain of the story, Kaecilius is a fallen child of Kamar-Taj and a former apprentice of ‘The Ancient One’. Mikkelsen really captures the essence of the character, creating a truly menacing villain. His on-screen presence cannot be matched and seeing him go toe-to-toe with the sorcerer supreme himself, is truly magnificent and breathtaking.

Buy Doctor Strange on DVD Here

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story – In 2016 again, Mikkelsen took on the role as Galen Erso int eh ‘Star Wars’ the prequel, the father of the protagonist of the film Jyn Erso. Mikkelsen ends up having a massive part to play in the ‘Star Wars franchise, as he makes the ultimate sacrifice that led to the destruction of the ‘Death Star’ and the ultimate downfall of the Empire. Mikkelsen gives a robust performance as the character, showing real humanity. I loved the opening sequence of the film, as it shows where his allegiance truly lies.

Buy Rogue One: A Star Wars Story on DVD Here

Hannibal (2013-2015) – Bryan Fuller's masterful tv series ‘Hannibal’ is truly amazing, but is bought to life because of Mikkelsen's timely performance as Dr. Hannibal Lecter is one of the best ever put to the small screen. He is philosophical, menacing, and at times downright terrifying. We spend a great deal of time with his character over the course of the show and I find his performance to be breathtaking. The character is given a lot of depth, which is something I was not expecting. Mikkelsen proves here that he is one of the best character actors working in Hollywood, transcending the genre and providing an award-worthy turn as the title character.

Buy The Hannibal TV Series Boxset on DVD Here

Clash of The Titans (2010) – This selection is definitely a personal selection, as I know the film has its fair share of haters, but you know what. I kind of like it. I am of course talking about 2010’s ‘Clash of The Titans’ remake which of course starred Mads Mikkelsen as Draco, a mentor to the film's protagonist ‘Perseus’ son of Zeus. Mikkelsen here gives a great performance, it was fun to see him in an action film as he really has fun with the role. He hems up his performance without getting too silly, finding the perfect blend between the two to become my favorite character in the film.

Mads Mikkelsen has become one of Hollywoods best actors and is finally receiving the recognition he deserves for his hard work. Be sure to check out his performance in ‘Another Round’ he is fantastic in the film. 

Buy Another Round on DVD Here

Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here